Topical Encyclopedia The term "Assumption" is most commonly associated with the Assumption of Mary, a doctrine held by the Roman Catholic Church, which teaches that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life. While the Assumption of Mary is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, it is a belief that has developed through tradition and theological reflection within certain Christian communities.Biblical Background The Bible does not provide a direct account of Mary's Assumption. However, some theologians and scholars point to biblical passages that are seen as supportive or prefigurative of this event. For instance, the Assumption is often linked to the imagery found in Revelation 12, where a "woman clothed with the sun" is described. Revelation 12:1 states, "A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and a crown of twelve stars on her head." While interpretations vary, some see this woman as a symbol of Mary, suggesting her exalted status. Additionally, the Assumption is sometimes connected to the biblical theme of bodily resurrection and transformation. Passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:52-53 speak of the transformation of the body at the resurrection: "in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must be clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality." While this passage refers to the general resurrection, it is seen by some as a theological basis for the belief in Mary's Assumption. Historical Development The belief in the Assumption of Mary developed over several centuries. Early Christian writings and apocryphal texts, such as the "Transitus Mariae" (The Passing of Mary), reflect an early tradition of Mary's bodily assumption. By the 6th century, the feast of the Dormition (falling asleep) of Mary was celebrated in the Eastern Church, which later evolved into the feast of the Assumption in the Western Church. The doctrine was formally defined by Pope Pius XII in 1950 in the apostolic constitution "Munificentissimus Deus." The declaration stated that Mary, "having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." This definition was based on the longstanding tradition and the belief in Mary's unique role in salvation history. Theological Significance The Assumption of Mary holds significant theological implications. It underscores the belief in the dignity and sanctity of the human body, as well as the hope of resurrection and eternal life for all believers. Mary's Assumption is seen as a sign of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of salvation and the glorification of the faithful. Furthermore, the Assumption highlights Mary's unique role in the divine plan of salvation. As the mother of Jesus, she is honored as the Theotokos, or "God-bearer," and her Assumption is viewed as a special grace given to her by God. It serves as a reminder of her close association with her Son and her participation in His redemptive work. Contemporary Perspectives While the Assumption of Mary is a defined dogma in the Roman Catholic Church, it is not universally accepted among all Christian denominations. Protestant traditions generally do not hold to the Assumption, as it is not explicitly found in Scripture. However, some Anglican and Orthodox Christians may honor the tradition of the Dormition or Assumption, albeit with varying theological interpretations. In summary, the Assumption of Mary is a doctrine rooted in tradition and theological reflection, emphasizing the hope of resurrection and the special role of Mary in the Christian faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of assuming, or taking to or upon one's self; the act of taking up or adopting.2. (n.) The act of taking for granted, or supposing a thing without proof; supposition; unwarrantable claim. 3. (n.) The thing supposed; a postulate, or proposition assumed; a supposition. 4. (n.) The minor or second proposition in a categorical syllogism. 5. (n.) The taking of a person up into heaven. 6. (n.) A festival in honor of the ascent of the Virgin Mary into heaven. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASSUMPTION OF MOSESa-sump'-shun. See APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE. MOSES, ASSUMPTION OF a-sump'-shun. Greek 2603. katabrabeuo -- to give judgment against ... I decide against, condemn Definition: of the umpire in a contest: I decide against, take part against, condemn (perhaps with the idea of assumption, officialism ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2603.htm - 7k 1487. ei -- forasmuch as, if, that Library Whether Union is the Same as Assumption? The Burial and Assumption of the Blessed virgin The Mystery of the Assumption of Our Perfect Human Nature by the ... Of the Order of Assumption (Six Articles) Of the Assumption of Our Lady The Assumption that There are Two Earths Mentioned in the History ... The Assumption of Moses He Expounds the Passage of the Gospel, "The Father Judgeth no Man ... Of the Substance of the People of God, which through his ... The Definition which must be Given of a People and a Republic, in ... Thesaurus Assumption (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ASSUMPTION OF MOSES. a-sump'-shun. See APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE. MOSES, ASSUMPTION OF. a-sump'-shun. See APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE. ... /a/assumption.htm - 7k Sacraments Atonement (112 Occurrences) Fiction (2 Occurrences) Burning (415 Occurrences) Ahimelech (17 Occurrences) Magician (5 Occurrences) Kenosis Bush (14 Occurrences) Divination (25 Occurrences) Resources What is the Assumption of Mary? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Assumption of Moses? | GotQuestions.org Why won't God heal amputees? | GotQuestions.org Assumption: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Assumption (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 48:29 Subtopics Related Terms |
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